This year’s 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards took on a whole new look with nominees tuning in from their homes via virtual cameras due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, that didn’t stop television’s biggest stars from dressing to the nines and making the event feel special as they joined in from their living rooms, offices, and even their kitchens.
Despite the option to dress down in pajamas, Jennifer Aniston, Zendaya, and Tracee Ellis Ross decided to show up in style at the Staples Center in Los Angeles for the live event. Zendaya made history by becoming the youngest Lead Actress in a Drama Series winner, while Aniston and Ellis Ross stunned on the red carpet at the venue on Sunday evening.
The well-known actress, aged 51, appeared stunning in a sleek low-cut black dress designed by John Galliano for Christian Dior, accessorized with Neil Lane jewelry and elegant Dior heels. Aniston, who is up for an award for her performance in The Morning Show, confidently made her way down a hall filled with golden Emmy Awards as she kicked off the show alongside Jimmy Kimmel.
Making a grand entrance to present an award, Tracee, a 47-year-old star of Black-ish, shone in a dazzling gold gown by Alexandre Vauthier featuring a daring plunging neckline and a tasteful thigh-high slit, perfectly paired with Jimmy Choo shoes.
Ready for her close-up, the former star of Friends strutted onto the stage, flaunting her sun-kissed skin in a stunning evening dress.
Handling emergencies: The actress from The Morning Show brought lots of energy to her appearance with Jimmy Kimmel on stage at the deserted auditorium. She also got assistance with her wardrobe from an aide sporting a face shield for protection.
Celebrity stylist Chris McMillan worked his magic on the locks of the Rachel actress while she flaunted a stunning statement necklace. Zendaya, the star of Euphoria, exuded royalty in a vibrant Christopher John Rogers gown paired with a voluminous purple skirt and a dazzling string of violet Bulgari jewels around her neck. Adding a touch of glamour, she completed her look with bejeweled Christian Louboutin heels.
This year’s Emmys, celebrating excellence in television, are set to make history with Hollywood’s first major awards show in the midst of a pandemic. The entertainment industry has been turned upside down by the coronavirus, halting productions while encouraging audiences worldwide to indulge in binge-watching from the comfort of their homes.
Late-night host Kimmel led the show from a deserted theater, with winners joining in remotely from their homes to adhere to social distancing regulations in light of Covid-19.
Jumping in headfirst: Tracee, aged 47, looked stunning in a shimmering gold dress designed by Alexandre Vauthier, paired with elegant Jimmy Choo heels.
Rocking the shot: Despite wearing a face mask, the talented daughter of Diana Ross radiated beauty and confidence.
Stunning: Award-winning actress Zendaya, aged 24, glowed in a vibrant gown adorned with black sleeves
Shining star: The talented Spiderman star rocked a stunning ensemble by Christopher John Rogers, complemented by Bulgari accessories and Christian Louboutin shoes
In a stunning fashion statement, the star from Shake It Up completely changed her appearance by donning a custom polka dot ballgown with a studded top designed by Giorgio Armani Privé. Adding to the excitement of the evening filled with first-time experiences, over 130 nominees were provided with cameras to set up in their own homes and were urged to get creative with their acceptance speeches.
IndieWire TV awards editor Libby Hill mentioned that award show ratings have been declining for years, and this event presents a unique opportunity to break the mold and conduct an award ceremony like never before. She expressed her enthusiasm for the potential chaos of the night, stating that even if it turns out to be a disaster, it will definitely be an interesting one – which is all one can hope for in the year 2020.
Quick journey: Reese Witherspoon enjoyed the evening in style, rocking a sleek black Louis Vuitton dress.
Enjoying each other’s company: The iconic star of Legally Blonde, aged 44, maintained a comfortable distance while observing the event alongside her co-star Kerry Washington from Little Fires Everywhere (at the far right). Despite their show not winning in the Outstanding Limited Series category, they seemed to have a great time together.
Let’s kick off 2021 in style: The pair hosted a New Year’s Eve themed bash, and the actress nominated for Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie, age 43, sparkled in a stunning sequin midi dress by Dolce & Gabbana.
Ready to impress: The ex-Scandal actress then slipped into a gorgeous Oscar de la Renta dress.
Taking the awards by storm: The cast of Schitt’s Creek assembled in chic evening attire as they claimed their well-deserved accolades. (Eugene Levy on the left, Catherine O’Hara on the right)
On fire: Laverne Cox rocked a stunning black dress with delicate embroidered detail underneath.
In adherence to social distancing guidelines, Annie Murphy and Daniel Levy dressed up for the ceremony, showcasing a unique and creative style. Watchmen made a huge impact this year with 26 nominations and winning for Outstanding Limited Series. This comic book adaptation, which eerily mirrors recent events like US racism and police violence, has captured the attention of both critics and fans. The show’s relevance to current issues has impressed many, leading some to believe it’s a frontrunner for multiple awards. Expect to hear Watchmen’s name called often throughout the night, as it’s a standout in this year’s lineup.
Looking fabulous: Regina King, who won the Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie award, paid tribute to the late Breonna Taylor by wearing a commemorative T-shirt beneath a stunning fuchsia suit.
All set to head out: Ted Danson and Mark Duplass nailed the laid-back business attire with their stylish checked shirts.
Beaming with joy: Comedian Yvonne Orji dazzled in a sparkling one-shoulder red dress adorned with sequins.
In a bold move, the star of Insecure shared a closer glimpse of her outfit on social media, and even showcased a unique Black Power fist shaved into her hair.
Bathroom elegance: Gabrielle Union looking stylish in a white bathrobe and shower cap
It’s always best to err on the side of caution! Jason Sudeikis was all dressed up to present an award when a nurse unexpectedly popped in to conduct a COVID-19 test on him.
In a stunning display of elegance, Ozark actress Julia Garner dazzled in a 1920s-inspired ensemble by Chanel Haute Couture. Meanwhile, Billy Porter brought the drama in a striking ivory outfit with a long train.
Following the departure of HBO’s Emmy-winning series Game of Thrones, this year’s drama series categories are expected to be fiercely competitive. With the success of Succession, HBO seems to have found its new star, according to Deadline awards columnist Pete Hammond.
Succession, a gripping show about a powerful family vying for control of a media empire, won an Emmy for writing in its first season and has garnered an impressive 18 nominations this year, ultimately winning the Outstanding Drama Series award.
In the mix are also contenders like The Crown and The Mandalorian, which boasts impressive production values akin to Game of Thrones and has already secured multiple technical Emmys for streaming service Disney+.
Cynthia Erivo wowed in a vibrant, figure-hugging dress at the premiere of The Outsider.
Father-daughter bonding: Jason cherished the moments spent with Maple, his eight-year-old daughter, who stood by him for love and comfort.
She’s not messing around: Insecure star Issa Rae went for a soft-hued suit and a sleek bun, while Succession’s Sarah Snook rocked a powerful ensemble in a tailored suit.
All set for the spotlight: Jane Lynch exuded elegance in a rich burgundy jacket.
Night out together: Sarah Paulson snuggled close to her partner Holland Taylor while eagerly anticipating the announcement of the winners.
Dressed to impress, Anthony Anderson was spotted in a stylish metallic suit as he mingled with Sterling K. Brown.
Dressed to impress: Hugh Jackman and Shaquille O’Neal donned their classy collared shirts for the special event.
Chic: Shira Haas, the unconventional star who was in Israel while the show was airing, looked stunning in a navy blue dress by Chanel. The dress featured intricate embroidery on organza and chiffon, giving her a truly unique and elegant look.
Embracing the autumn vibes, Christina Applegate opted for a snug black sweater as she cozied up by a crackling fireplace, despite missing out on the top prize for Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
Ecstatic: Rachel Brosnahan from The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel dazzled in a vibrant outfit, while D’Arcy Carden from The Good Place chose a stylish sheer black dress.
Rachel shared her cozy and stylish sleepwear look on Instagram with the caption ‘Pajamas, but make it fashion’.
Jameela Jamil from The Good Place rocked a dazzling multicolored robe over her pajamas just because she felt like it!
Actress Rain Valdez stunned in a beautiful white dress adorned with intricate floral detailing, creating a dazzling floral explosion look.
Two stunning brunettes, Zooey Deschanel and Linda Cardellini, were seen looking fabulous at home during the ceremony. The battle for the best comedy this year seemed to be between the usual winner The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Schitt’s Creek, which took home the top prize in the end. Schitt’s Creek, a Canadian show about a wealthy family adapting to life in a rundown motel, didn’t receive any nominations in its initial years but gained popularity after being aired on Netflix, concluding with a heartwarming final season.
In addition to the awards, the evening also celebrated the career achievements of Tyler Perry. The African-American media mogul has been a vocal advocate for diversity in Hollywood and made headlines this year for covering the funeral expenses of black individuals who were victims of police violence, including George Floyd.
Tituss Burgess sported a trendy athleisure ensemble from Lee Rickie Collection, showcasing a vibrant red hue while wearing his mask.
Actress Laura Linney from the popular show Ozark urged people to participate in the upcoming election by donning a suit decorated with the word ‘VOTE’.
In 2020, the Emmy Awards took on a whole new format as it went virtual with no live audience. Jimmy Fallon helmed the ceremony from an empty studio, joined only by a handful of celebrities.
Only a few people were left working in the huge auditorium at the Staples Center, with the rest of the area deserted except for the small production stage.